Month: December 2012

by Rachel Vilsack As we approach the New Year, it’s a good time to reflect on what’s working in your job search and what isn’t. How can you maintain momentum in 2013? Try setting some intentions now. What’s an Intention? I don’t believe in New Year’s resolutions, which never seen to make their way … Continue reading Job Search Intentions for the New Year

by Mark Anthony Zappa In this new year, treat yourself to the benefits of Minnesota Ready, a 32-hour job search immersion program offered at two locations in St. Paul. Held over eight days, Minnesota Ready will provide you with the skills and knowledge needed to be competitive in today’s job market and advance you … Continue reading Drive Your Career in the New Year

by Rachel Vilsack One of the best additions I made to my workspace this year is a list of my 10 guiding values. I have them posted on my cubicle wall, next to my computer. I read through them every day. They are a reminder, about what is important in my life and how I … Continue reading Discover Your Workplace Values

by Rachel Vilsack Are there skills you would like to develop on your resume? Think about volunteering! In 2011, 38 percent of Minnesota residents volunteered in 2011. Minnesota ranked 4th among all states in volunteer rates, according to a new report from the Corporation for National & Community Service. That’s 1.58 million volunteers giving nearly 172 million hours … Continue reading Skill Enhancement through Volunteering

by Rachel Vilsack I once applied to a job that required a writing sample. The employer wanted to be sure that I had strong writing skills, since the job included authoring technical reports and articles for both professional and general audiences. I remember submitting my writing portfolio, which showed the range of writing experience I … Continue reading Build a Career Portfolio

by Amanda Rohrer Anecdote and evidence don’t always seem to agree when it comes to the unemployment rate and the economy. Although Minnesota’s unemployment rate has been declining consistently for the past two years, most people still have stories about friends, family, and neighbors who just can’t get a break. All the published unemployment rate … Continue reading Working Part-Time for Economic Reasons

by Rachel Vilsack Every month, the updated unemployment rate gives us a snapshot of how the Minnesota and regional labor markets are changing. This information is essential for tracking trends and comparing labor market conditions across the nation. However, we often want to know how certain populations within our state are faring. Instead of monthly … Continue reading How Does Minnesota Unemployment Compare?

by Rachel Vilsack The Twin Cities economy is projected to grow by 12 percent between 2010 and 2020, according to new data from the state’s Labor Market Information Office. By 2020, it’s estimated that there will be 202,060 new jobs across the region’s industry sectors, with even more jobs available as people retire or otherwise … Continue reading Twin Cities Employment Projections to 2020